Jewish Australians feel unsafe amid surge in attacks, envoy says
Melbourne Synagogue Threat Sparks National Antisemitism Alert
On Friday, a suspected arson attack targeted a Melbourne synagogue, marking the latest escalation in antisemitic incidents across Australia.
Community Safety Concerns Rise
- Hundreds of Jews in Melbourne and Sydney report feeling “very unsafe” after a surge in threats and vandalism.
- Cars were torched, anti‑Jew graffiti sprayed, and an Israeli‑owned restaurant swarmed by protesters on the same day.
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed that no place in Australia tolerates such hatred.
Special Envoy Provides Recommendations
Jillian Segal, appointed as the anti‑antisemitism envoy, released a 16‑page report detailing urgent actions.
- Strengthen hate and intimidation laws where necessary.
- Hold universities accountable for fostering safe environments, threatening funding cut‑offs for non‑compliant institutions.
- Crack down on online hate, encouraging media to report accurately, fairly, and responsibly.
Report Highlights a Tipping Point
Segal warned that antisemitism threatens social harmony, undermines institutional trust, and marginalises Jewish Australians. She urged collective resolve to push hatred to society’s fringes.
Government Commitment
Albanese affirmed a dedicated partnership with civil society, pledging to push antisemitism to the margins across all levels of public life.
